Becca Helton Cultural Activity In French 150, we talked about the difference in French culture and American culture.

In this essay, I will discuss different aspects of each culture. I have chosen the different aspects by going through our textbook and selecting the Regards sur la culture sections from each chapter. Stereotypes Like Debuts: An Introduction to French states, stereotypes usually tell us as much about the values and customs of the people who use them as about those whom they are supposed to describe. (page 45) Unfortunately, stereotypes are usually wrong and can be misleading to someones view on a culture. When we did the survey on American and French stereotypes, most students responses were similar. Some common American stereotypes include Americans being fat, lazy, loud, and rely on technology too much. Some common French stereotypes include rude, skinny, and obsessed with food, especially wine and cheese. Stereotypes can be true to a certain extent. The American population is predominately overweight and can be loud at times compared to the French. The French due value bread as a staple food and may come off a rude. The reality is: these stereotypes are just an individuals view or experience with another culture. Each culture is unique and different. Stereotypes do not need to make up a majority view of a culture. Non-verbal Communication Non-verbal communication varies in French and American cultures. In France, a handshake is an obligatory greetingfor all colleagues and friends the first time they meet each day and just before leaving at the end of the day. (page 67) In America, a handshake is seen more as formal and is only done between meeting a stranger or colleague for the first time. Interpersonal distances also vary between the countries. The average distance between two people in conversation in America is about 4 feet. In France, the distance is about 2 feet. When a French person and an American person are in a conversation together, the American will likely back away. But, the French person will move closer to the American. In France, staring at strangers is common. Imposingly, Americans view this as rude and are often uncomfortable when people, especially strangers, are staring. Diversity and Intercultural Communication France is one of the most diverse countries in Europe. Between Mediterranean coasts, high mountains, volcanoes, plains, deep canyons, and Arizona-like landscapes makes up the country of France. Since the overall landscape of France is diverse, so is the culture. Local traditions, cuisine, and people groups vary from providence to providence. Since the providences are different, this makes it easier for a traveller to know when they have entered a new providence. In the past 50 years, Spanish, Portuguese, and Maghrebise people have immigrated to France. America is alike France in having diverse providences. In America, 4 areas compose the landscape: The South, The North, The Midwest, and The West. Not only do these areas refer to the

geographical location of each area, but also refer to the culture. For example: The South, located in the southeastern part of North America, is drastically different from The North. Family Life Family life in France is different from America. In France, family (along with its affairs) is viewed as private matters and is only discussed within the family. The house is a private domain, not only physically but also emotionally. French houses are often enclosed by a fence or wall. Only strong friends are invited into a French home. Family life is also very important in friendships. French people often feel that they need to know something about a persons family in order to evaluate him/her. (page 109) Unlike Americans, sibling rivalry is discouraged and siblings get along with each other. Also unlike Americans, it is shameful for an elder to be put into a hospital, nursing home or retirement home. They are often at home with their family. Fashion Fashion in France is elegant and conveys good taste. Appearance in France is highly valued compared to America. We, Americans, often go out in leggings, t-shirts, and tennis shoes (myself included). In France, this would be considered badly dressed. Like we talked about in class, nice pants, blouse or shirt, and nice dress shoes are a basic, daily outfit. In America, we often associate French clothing with Chanel and JeanPaul Gaultier. The young people of France however try to imitate American clothing. American clothing companies in France include Chevignon. French people are often passionate about fashion, in which Americans would view as strange. Food, Meals, and Table Etiquette In France, food is an important aspect in the culture. Social relations are often maintained around home-cooked meals (page 148). A traditional market in France is arranged to highlight color, aesthetic appeal and mix the sounds and smells to contribute to the experience of the market. A vendor will often tend to the customer, cutting the meat specifically for the customer. A customer will tell a vendor how much produce they want and the vendor will then pick the fruit out. In America, we often pick out our own produce in a grocery store. The quality of food is also important in French culture. They often try to stay away from pesticide or altered food, unlike Americans. French meals often consist of three or more courses. Guests in a French home are always treated to these meals. A meal includes a entre (bowl of soup, mushrooms), le plat principal (the main dish), and a desert (which could include coffee or alcohol afterwards). In conclusion, French culture and American culture are very different. Although, there are a few similarities in the cultures. We covered more culture topics, but I only included the aspects important to me. The French culture is beautiful culture and should be respected as one.